Choosing Outdoor Furniture

Choosing outdoor furniture can be tricky, but if you take the time to do it right, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional space for years.

However, you must make sure you choose the right style for your lifestyle and budget. The materials you choose can also be a major factor in your final decision.

Size

The size of outdoor furniture should be determined by the area that it will be placed in, as well as the purpose for which it will be used. Furniture that will be used in an open area, such as a patio or deck, should be lighter and more easily moved around, while furniture that will be placed in more permanent seating areas, such as an outdoor dining set, should have a heavier weight to help it stay in place.

The type of material that the furniture is made from also plays a role in the size of the pieces. Materials such as aluminum, steel and plastic are lightweight and easy to move around, while heavyweight materials such as wood can withstand harsh weather conditions.

If you plan to use your furniture for entertaining, you will want to choose a larger piece that can accommodate a large number of guests. A conversation set, which includes four lounge chairs around a low table or fire pit, will typically accommodate more than one person for drinks and appetizers, while a large dining set can accommodate several people at a time for meals.

You can also select chairs and tables that are designed to expand or collapse as needed, such as accordion tables. This will save space and make it easier to move around the yard.

When selecting furniture, it is important to choose materials that will last for a long time. Woods like teak, mahogany and oak are very durable and resistant to rot and damage, but they can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, consider other materials that are less expensive but can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as aluminum or resin wicker.

Material

Choosing the right material for your outdoor furniture is an important step to ensuring it lasts long and stays in good condition. Several factors can influence the material choice, including its weather resistance and aesthetic.

If you choose a sturdy, heavy material, it will be less likely to move during rough weather conditions like hurricanes and tornadoes. A lightweight material, on the other hand, could easily blow away in strong winds, which is not what you want.

Metal is a common material used for frames in outdoor furniture because it is the strongest and most durable option. It is also a versatile material that can be shaped into more complex designs than other options.

When selecting a metal, look for one that is rust-resistant and can be treated to protect it from the elements. Stainless steel, galvanized steel and wrought iron are all popular choices.

Wood is another classic choice for outdoor furniture. You can find a variety of wood species with unique graining patterns and colors that are ideal for any backyard space. The natural color and texture of a hardwood, such as teak or Shorea, will develop a beautiful patina over time that will enhance the overall aesthetic.

However, wooden materials need regular refinishing and maintenance to maintain their color and protective finishes. If left untreated, teak and Shorea can rot and warp if exposed to moisture or pests.

Alternatively, if you do not mind having to spend some money, aluminum is a great material for outdoor furniture frames. It is a light weight material that is easy to work with and provides comparable durability to cast and wrought aluminum but is typically priced lower than the latter.

Style

When you’re shopping for outdoor furniture, style is one of the most important factors to consider. Choosing pieces that fit your lifestyle, space and budget will help you create a stylish outdoor oasis that’s perfect for your family and guests.

Some of the most popular styles include modern, shabby chic, classic and eclectic. You can mix and match any of these designs to give your patio a fresh, curated look that’s suited to your tastes.

If you’re looking for something more traditional, wrought iron is a great choice. These tables and chairs have an old-fashioned charm that works well in a garden or a casual entertaining style. If you’re on a budget, powder-coated cast aluminum is a good alternative to wrought iron and won’t rust.

Woven wicker is another favorite material for outdoor chairs, benches and tables. It can be found in a variety of colors and is ideal for coastal areas because it can withstand harsh weather.

Many wicker outdoor sets also come with an umbrella to protect your furniture and guests from the elements. You can find woven seating in white, cream or pale shades for a timeless look.

If you want a more colorful option, you can opt for paisley or geometric patterns that complement your garden’s foliage. Then, use accents like throw pillows in the same color to unify your furniture and add comfort to your backyard retreat.

Regardless of what you choose for your outdoor furniture, it’s important to select pieces that are crafted with quality in mind. This is especially true if you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain and humidity. It’s also important to check the craftsmanship of metal welding and the joints of wood pieces to ensure that they are securely joined and blend in with your design.

Comfort

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to choosing outdoor furniture, particularly if you have young children or pets who enjoy lingering outside. Fortunately, there is no shortage of comfortable options, from sofas and chairs to chaise lounges and more.

Generally speaking, comfort is determined by material choices and design. For example, a well-made wicker sofa with all-weather cushions is a winner. In terms of style, a sleek, contemporary or modern design that complements your home’s architecture is also a smart move.

In short, you need to choose the right material for the right price point and design it with care if you want your investment to last. It’s also important to consider the weather in your area as it will determine your furniture selection.

For example, polyester woven with PVC is a waterproof fabric that’s ideal for a coastal home. This material is also more durable than its less-sturdy counterparts, making it an ideal choice for families with active outdoor lifestyles and pets.

Lastly, the best way to test your luck at finding the most comfortable outdoor furniture is to do a proper sit test before you make your purchase. This will ensure you’re not disappointed with your purchase and will save you time and money in the long run.

Maintenance

Whether you’re running a restaurant, public park or shopping mall, your outdoor furnishings are an important part of your business. You want them to look good, make your customers comfortable and serve their purpose well. But with constant use and a variety of different weather conditions, your outdoor furniture is susceptible to damage and must be properly maintained to last.

The maintenance needs of your outdoor furniture will vary depending on the type of material it’s made from and how often you use it. Regardless of the material, all your furniture should be regularly cleaned and inspected for any signs of damage or wear.

Wood, metal and plastic are some of the most common materials used for outdoor patio furniture. All of these materials can be easily maintained and cleaned using basic cleaning supplies.

For wooden furniture, the best way to clean is with a cloth moistened with water or a mild soapy solution. You can also use a gentle wood cleaner for deeper cleaning, particularly at the beginning and end of each season.

If you’re trying to keep the natural look of wood furniture, you may need to apply a wood-preserving product like furniture oil or a light coating of sealant. These protect the wood against rotting and provide a protective barrier for the natural color of the woodgrain.

While metal patio furniture is generally easy to maintain, rust can be a problem if it’s not kept clean. Rust-inhibiting products are available at hardware stores, and you should clean the metal regularly to prevent rusting.

Keeping metal outdoor furniture looking new can be done with a simple cleaning and resealing process. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.